Compact-folded article and pouch

ABSTRACT

A personal care article ( 20 ) has a longitudinal-direction ( 22 ), a relatively shorter, lateral cross-direction ( 24 ), a first end-section ( 72 ), a second end-section ( 72   a ), and an intermediate-section ( 76 ) which is contiguous with and interposed between the first end-section ( 72 ) and the second end-section ( 72   a ). The article includes a liquid permeable topsheet layer ( 26 ), and a backsheet layer ( 28 ) which is operatively connected to the topsheet layer ( 26 ). The article has been folded about a first, supplemental-fold-region ( 64 ) and a second, supplemental-fold-region ( 66 ) to provide a preliminary-folded article ( 82 ). The preliminary-folded article has been operatively enclosed in a wrap member ( 98 ), and the preliminary-folded article and wrap member have been folded along a composite-fold-region ( 96   a ) to provide a composite-folded, wrapped-article ( 114 ). The wrap member has included a wrap retainer mechanism ( 112 ) which has been configured to operatively hold the composite-folded, article and wrap member in their composite-folded condition.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a personal care article. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a personal care absorbent article, such as an absorbent feminine care or adult care pad. The personal care article may be operatively secured to a selected garment of a wearer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Absorbent products intended to absorb discharged body fluids are well known in the art. Such absorbent products generally comprise a fibrous mass or other absorbent body which can absorb and hold the body fluids. Similarly, it is well known that feminine care articles have been employed to absorb and hold liquids, such as urine and/or menses. The absorbent articles have included various systems of liquid-handling layers, such as intake layers, distribution layers, retention layers and the like. The absorbent products are worn against the body. To keep these products on the body, the products have included either a system of fasteners or a garment attachment system. For example, feminine care articles have employed a garment-attachment adhesive to help secure the article to a wearer's undergarment. Additionally, the absorbent articles have included wing portions which can help to hold the article in place at a selected location in the undergarment. Various fasteners have been employed to secure the wing portions in a desired configuration during ordinary use. The fasteners have included adhesive fasteners as well as mechanical fasteners, and the mechanical fasteners have included conventional, hook-and-loop fasteners. Individual absorbent articles have been folded or rolled to reduce the size of the article for storage and transport prior to use, and each article has been enclosed in a corresponding, individual storage pouch, wrapper or other container.

The absorbent products undergo deformation during wear, and the deformation has caused the product to take undesired shapes or configurations. The product can fold and shift to expose the wearer or the wearer's clothing to undesired regions of the product. In particular situations, the deformation has caused the fasteners or garment attachment system to detach and come in contact with the wearer. The contact has caused excessive irritation and discomfort, particularly when a garment-attachment adhesive has contacted the wearer's skin or hair. The occurrences of the undesirable deformations and configurations increase when the absorbent article has been constructed with greater flexibility and thinness.

Conventional absorbent articles have been folded or rolled for placement in a storage pouch or wrapper. Particular storage configurations, however, can increase the occurrences of the undesired deformations of the absorbent article. Additionally, the storage configurations have not provided desired combinations of small size, discretion, ease of use. As a result, there has been a continued need for improved, individually pouched or wrapped articles that can be discreetly carried in a person's hand, and provide desired levels of liquid intake and retention. There has been a continued need for improved, individually pouched or wrapped articles that can provide a desired ease of securement to a wearer's undergarment, and desired levels of fit and comfort to the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Generally stated, the present invention provides a personal care article having a longitudinal-direction, a relatively shorter, lateral cross-direction, a first end-section, a second end-section, and an intermediate-section which is contiguous with and interposed between the first end-section and the second end-section. The article includes a liquid permeable topsheet layer, and a backsheet layer which is operatively connected to the topsheet layer. Additionally, the article has been folded about selected fold-regions to provide a preliminary-folded article. The preliminary-folded article has been operatively enclosed in a wrap member, and the preliminary-folded article and wrap member have been folded along a composite-fold-region to provide a composite-folded, wrapped-article. The wrap member can also include a wrap retainer mechanism which has been configured to operatively hold the composite-folded, article and wrap member in their composite-folded condition.

By incorporating its various features and configurations, the article of the invention can better provide desired combinations of small size, discretion, comfort, reliable fit, and ease of use. The articles can, for example, be more discreetly carried in a person's hand, can provide desired levels of liquid intake and retention, and can provide a desired ease of securement to a wearer's undergarment. Where the article includes a garment-attachment mechanism (e.g. a garment-attachment adhesive), for example, the configurations of the article can help avoid excessive skin irritation caused by the garment-attachment mechanism, and can help avoid undesired attachments of the garment-attachment mechanism to other portions of the article or to the body of a wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings where:

FIG. 1 shows a representative, partially cut-away, top, plan view of a bodyside of an absorbent article.

FIG. 2 shows a representative, partially cut-away, top, plan view of a bodyside of an absorbent article having side-panels or wings.

FIG. 2A shows a representative, bottom, plan view of a garment-side of the absorbent article illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2B shows an expanded, schematic view of a representative, transverse cross-section of the absorbent article illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2C shows an expanded, schematic view of a representative, longitudinal cross-section of the absorbent article illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 shows a representative, side elevational view of an absorbent article that has been subjected to a composite folding operation.

FIG. 3A shows a representative, side elevational view of an absorbent article that is in a transitory position of a composite folding operation.

FIG. 3B shows a representative, side elevational view of an absorbent article that has been folded about a first supplemental-fold-region.

FIG. 3C shows a representative, side elevational view of an absorbent article that has been folded about a second supplemental-fold-region.

FIG. 3D shows a representative, side elevational view of an absorbent article that has been folded about a composite-fold-region.

FIG. 4 shows a representative, side elevational view of another absorbent article that has been subjected to a composite folding operation.

FIG. 4A shows a representative, side elevational view of the absorbent article of FIG. 4 arranged in a transitory position of a composite folding operation.

FIG. 4B shows a representative, side elevational view of the absorbent article of FIG. 4 where the article has been folded about a first supplemental-fold-region and a second supplemental-fold-region.

FIG. 4C shows a representative, side elevational view of the absorbent article of FIG. 4 where the article has been folded about a composite-fold-region.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of another representative, longitudinal cross-section of an absorbent article.

FIG. 5A shows a representative, plan view of a bodyside of the absorbent article illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 shows a representative, plan view of a preliminary-folded article.

FIG. 6A shows a representative, side elevational view of the preliminary-folded article of FIG. 6.

FIG. 6B shows a representative, end view of the preliminary-folded article of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 shows a representative, plan view of another preliminary-folded article.

FIG. 7A shows a representative, side elevational view of the preliminary-folded article of FIG. 7.

FIG. 7B shows a representative, end view of the preliminary-folded article of FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a bodyside of a representative article having side-panels or wings arranged in a storage position.

FIG. 9 shows a partially cut-away, plan view of a representative preliminary-folded article contained in a pouch or other wrap member.

FIG. 9A shows a partially cut-away, plan view of a representative composite-folded, wrapped article that can be provided from the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 representatively shows a partially cut-away, plan view of an alternative, preliminary-folded article contained in a pouch or other wrap member.

FIG. 10A shows a partially cut-away, plan view of a representative, composite-folded, wrapped article that can be provided from the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 shows a plan view of a representative preliminary-folded article contained in a pouch or other wrap member which includes a wrap retainer mechanism.

FIG. 11A shows a representative, plan view of a composite-folded, wrapped article that can be provided from the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 11.

FIG. 11B representatively shows a schematic, expanded, end-view of a composite-folded, wrapped article that can be provided from the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted that, when employed in the present disclosure, the terms “comprises”, “comprising” and other derivatives from the root term “comprise” are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of any stated features, elements, integers, steps, or components, and are not intended to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

By the terms “particle,” “particles,” “particulate,” “particulates” and the like, it is meant that the material is generally in the form of discrete units. The units can comprise granules, powders, spheres, pulverized materials or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The particles can have any desired shape such as, for example, cubic, rod-like, polyhedral, spherical or semi-spherical, rounded or semi-rounded, angular, irregular, etc. Shapes having a large greatest dimension/smallest dimension ratio, like needles, flakes and fibers, are also contemplated for inclusion herein. The terms “particle” or “particulate” may also include an agglomeration comprising more than one individual particle, particulate or the like. Additionally, a particle, particulate or any desired agglomeration thereof may be composed of more than one type of material.

As used herein, the term “nonwoven” refers to a fabric web that has a structure of individual fibers or filaments which are interlaid, but not in an identifiable repeating manner.

As used herein, the terms “spunbond” or “spunbonded fiber” refer to fibers which are formed by extruding filaments of molten thermoplastic material from a plurality of fine, usually circular, capillaries of a spinneret, and then rapidly reducing the diameter of the extruded filaments.

As used herein, the phrase “meltblown fibers” refers to fibers formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material through a plurality of fine, usually circular, die capillaries as molten threads or filaments into a high velocity, usually heated, gas (e.g., air) stream which attenuates the filaments of molten thermoplastic material to reduce their diameter. Thereafter, the meltblown fibers are carried by the high velocity gas stream and are deposited on a collecting surface to form a web of randomly disbursed meltblown fibers.

“Coform” as used herein is intended to describe a blend of meltblown fibers and cellulose fibers that is formed by air forming a meltblown polymer material while simultaneously blowing air-suspended cellulose fibers into the stream of meltblown fibers. The meltblown fibers containing wood fibers are collected on a forming surface, such as provided by a foraminous belt. The forming surface may include a gas-pervious material, such as spunbonded fabric material, that has been placed onto the forming surface.

As used herein, the phrase “complex liquid” describes a liquid generally characterized as being a viscoelastic liquid comprising multiple components having inhomogeneous physical and/or chemical properties. It is the inhomogeneous properties of the multiple components that challenge the efficacy of an absorbent or adsorbent material in the handling of complex liquids. In contrast with complex liquids, simple liquids, such as, for example, urine, physiological saline, water and the like, are generally characterized as being relatively low-viscosity and comprising one or more components having homogeneous physical and/or chemical properties. As a result of having homogeneous properties, the one or more components of simple liquids behave substantially similarly during absorption or adsorption, although some components may be absorbed or adsorbed more readily than others.

Although a complex liquid is generally characterized herein as including specific components having inhomogeneous properties, each specific component of a complex liquid generally has homogeneous properties. Consider for example a representative complex body-liquid having three specific components: red blood cells, blood protein molecules and water molecules. Upon examination, one skilled in the art could easily distinguish between each of the three specific components according to their generally inhomogeneous properties. Moreover, when examining a particular specific component such as the red blood cell component, one skilled in the art could easily recognize the generally homogeneous properties of the red blood cells.

As used herein, the term “hydrophilic” describes fibers or the surfaces of fibers that are wetted by the aqueous liquids in contact with the fibers. The degree of wetting of the materials can, in turn, be described in terms of the contact angles and the surface tensions of the liquids and materials involved. Equipment and techniques suitable for measuring the wettability of particular fiber materials can be provided by a Cahn SFA-222 Surface Force Analyzer System, or a substantially equivalent system. When measured with this system, fibers having contact angles less than 90° are designated “wettable” or hydrophilic, while fibers having contact angles equal to or greater than to 90° are designated “nonwettable” or hydrophobic. When comparing materials, a material that forms a relatively larger contact angle with water is relatively less hydrophilic than a material that forms a smaller contact angle with water.

As used herein, the phrase “absorbent article” refers to devices which absorb and contain body liquids, and more specifically, refers to devices which are placed against or near the skin to absorb and contain the various liquids discharged from the body. The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles that are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article after a single use. Examples of such disposable absorbent articles include, but are not limited to: health care related products including surgical drapes, gowns, and sterile wraps; personal care absorbent products such as feminine hygiene products (e.g., sanitary napkins, pantiliners, tampons, interlabial devices and the like), infant diapers, children's training pants, adult incontinence products and the like; as well as absorbent wipes and covering mats.

Disposable absorbent articles such as, for example, many of the feminine care absorbent products, can include a liquid pervious topsheet, an operatively liquid-impervious backsheet connected to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned and held between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet is operatively permeable to the liquids that are intended to be held or stored by the absorbent article, and the backsheet may be substantially impermeable or otherwise operatively impermeable to the intended liquids. The absorbent article may also include other components, such as liquid wicking layers, liquid intake layers, liquid distribution layers, transfer layers, barrier layers, and the like, as well as combinations thereof. Disposable absorbent articles and the components thereof can operate to provide a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface. As used herein, the body-facing or bodyside surface means that surface of the article or component which is intended to be disposed toward or placed adjacent to the body of the wearer during ordinary use, while the outward, outward-facing or garment-side surface is on the opposite side, and is intended to be disposed to face away from the wearer's body during ordinary use. Such outward surface may be arranged to face toward or placed adjacent to the wearer's undergarments when the absorbent article is worn.

Personal care articles are well known in the art, and any personal care article can be reconfigured to incorporate the present invention. FIGS. 1 through 2C, illustrate examples of a suitable personal care article 20, such as the representatively shown adult care article, which incorporates the present invention. The adult care article can, for example, be an adult incontinence product, a feminine care pad or napkin, or the like. In desired arrangements, the personal care article can be configured to have a selected level of absorbent, retention capacity.

The individual article 20 can have a longitudinal-direction 22, a relatively shorter, lateral cross-direction 24, and a thickness-direction 25 (e.g. FIG. 5). The cross-direction extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal-direction, and the thickness or z-direction extends generally perpendicular to both the longitudinal-direction and cross-direction. The article also has a first end-section 72, a second end-section 72 a, and an intermediate-section 76. Desirably, the intermediate section is contiguous with and interposed between the first end-section 72 and the second end-section 72 a. The article includes a liquid permeable topsheet layer 26, and a backsheet layer 28 which is operatively connected to the topsheet layer 26. Optionally, the article may include an absorbent body 30 which is operatively sandwiched between the topsheet and backsheet layers.

With reference to FIGS. 3 through 7B and FIGS. 11-11B, the article 20 can be folded about a first, supplemental-fold-region 64 and a second, supplemental-fold-region 66 to provide a preliminary-folded article 82. The preliminary-folded article can be operatively enclosed in an operative wrap member 98, and the preliminary-folded article and wrap member can be folded along a composite-fold-region 96 a to provide a composite-folded, wrapped-article 114. The wrap member can also include a wrap retainer mechanism 112 which has been configured to operatively hold the composite-folded, article and wrap member in their composite-folded condition. As representatively shown, for example, the prior, preliminary-folded article can be previously enclosed with the wrap layer, and the resulting combination of the prior folded and wrapped article can subsequently be subjected to a combined, composite-folding operation. Accordingly, the prior folded and previously enclosed article can be operatively folded about the desired, composite-fold-region.

In particular features, the article 20 can be folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region 64, and the first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be located proximally adjacent a first portion of the article intermediate-section 76. The first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over first end-section, at least a portion of which is in facing relation with the intermediate-section 76 of the article, and positioned at least proximally adjacent the article intermediate-section. Desirably, at least a significant portion of the folded-over first end-section is positioned in facing relation with the intermediate-section of the article.

The article 20 can also be folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region 66, and the second supplemental-fold-region can be located proximally adjacent a second portion of the intermediate-section 76 of the article. The second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over second end-section, at least a portion of which is in facing relation with the intermediate-section of the article, and positioned at least proximally adjacent the article intermediate-section. Desirably, at least a significant portion of the folded-over second end-section is positioned in facing relation with the intermediate-section of the article. A preliminary-folded article 82 has been provided after and when the article has been folded about both the first supplemental-fold-region 64, and the second supplemental-fold-region 66. Additionally, the preliminary-folded article can be operatively enclosed in a wrap member 98. The wrap member can be a single-component or multiple-component member, and may include a flexible pouch layer or other flexible wrapping layer. In particular arrangements, the preliminary-folded article can be operatively enclosed in the wrap member 98 during or after the folding of the article about the first and second supplemental-fold-regions.

The preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98 can then be folded along a composite-fold-region 96 a of both the preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98, thereby providing the composite-folded, wrapped-article 114. In a particular aspect, the preliminary-folded article and wrap member can provide an assembled combination which are pre-positioned together, and subsequently folded with each other about the composite-fold-region 96 a. In another aspect, the preliminary-folded article and wrap member can be substantially simultaneously folded with each other along the appointed composite-fold-region.

The composite-fold-region 96 a can have any operative alignment. In desired aspects, the composite-fold-region can be constructed and aligned to be generally laterally-extending. Accordingly, the composite-fold-region can lie approximately along the transverse cross-direction 24. Alternatively, the composite-fold-region can be constructed and aligned to be generally longitudinally-extending. Accordingly, the composite-fold-region can lie approximately along the lengthwise direction 22.

Additionally, the wrap member 98 can include a wrap retainer mechanism 112 which has been configured to operatively hold the assembled combination of the composite-folded, article and composite-folded wrap member in their composite-folded condition. In desired arrangements, the wrap retainer mechanism 112 can operatively hold the composite-folded, article and composite-folded wrap member in their composite-folded condition during ordinary commercial transport and/or during ordinary consumer transport. The retainer mechanism 112 can be directly or indirectly attached to the wrap member, as desired.

By incorporating its various features and configurations, the article can better provide desired combinations of small size, discretion, ease of use, fit and comfort. The articles can be more discreetly carried in a person's hand, and can provide desired levels of liquid intake and retention. The articles can also provide a desired ease of securement to the wearer's undergarment. Where, for example, the article includes a garment-attachment mechanism (e.g. adhesive), the article configurations can help avoid the occurrence of excessive skin irritation from the garment-attachment mechanism, and can help avoid the occurrence of undesired attachments of the garment-attachment mechanism to other portions of the article or to the wearer's body.

In the various configurations of the article 20, the topsheet 26 may include a layer constructed of any operative material, and may be a composite material. For example, the topsheet layer can include a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a polymer film, a film-fabric laminate or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Examples of a nonwoven fabric include spunbond fabric, meltblown fabric, coform fabric, a carded web, a bonded-carded web, a bicomponent spunbond fabric or the like, as well as combinations thereof. For example, the topsheet layer can include a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a polymeric film that has been configured to be operatively liquid-permeable, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Other examples of suitable materials for constructing the topsheet layer can include rayon, bonded-carded webs of polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, or other heat-bondable fibers, polyolefins, such as copolymers of polypropylene and polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, aliphatic esters such as polylactic acid, finely perforated film webs, net materials, and the like, as well as combinations thereof.

A more particular example of a suitable topsheet layer material can include a bonded-carded web composed of polypropylene and polyethylene, such as has been used as a topsheet stock for KOTEX brand pantiliners, and has been obtainable from Vliesstoffwerk Christian Heinrich Sandier GmbH & Co. KG, a business having an address at Postfach 1144, D95120 Schwarzenbach/Saale, Germany. Other examples of suitable materials are composite materials of a polymer and a nonwoven fabric material. The composite materials are typically in the form of integral sheets generally formed by the extrusion of a polymer onto a web of spunbond material. In a desired arrangement, the topsheet layer 26 can be configured to be operatively liquid-permeable with regard to the liquids that the article is intended to absorb or otherwise handle. The operative liquid-permeability may, for example be provided by a plurality of pores, perforations, apertures or other openings, as well as combinations thereof, that are present or formed in the topsheet layer. The apertures or other openings can help increase the rate at which bodily liquids can move through the thickness of the topsheet layer and penetrate into the other components of the article (e.g. into the absorbent structure 30). The selected arrangement of liquid-permeability is desirably present at least on an operative portion of the topsheet layer that is appointed for placement on the body-side of the article. The topsheet layer 26 can provide comfort and conformability, and can function to direct bodily exudates away from the body and toward the absorbent structure 30. In a desired feature, the topsheet layer 26 can be configured to retain little or no liquid in its structure, and can be configured to provide a relatively comfortable and non-irritating surface next to the body tissues of a female wearer. The topsheet layer 26 can be constructed of any material which is also easily penetrated by bodily fluids that contact the surface of the topsheet layer. Additionally, the topsheet layer may optionally be configured to provide a small or other selected, operative amount of absorbent, liquid-retention capacity.

The topsheet 26 can also have at least a portion of its bodyside surface treated with a surfactant to render the topsheet more hydrophilic. The surfactant can permit arriving bodily liquids to more readily penetrate the topsheet layer. The surfactant may also diminish the likelihood that the arriving bodily fluids, such as menstrual fluid, will flow off the topsheet layer rather than penetrate through the topsheet layer into other components of the article (e.g. into the absorbent body structure). In a particular configuration, the surfactant can be substantially evenly distributed across at least a portion of the upper, bodyside surface of the topsheet 26 that overlays the upper, bodyside surface of the absorbent.

Where the article includes the absorbent body 30, the topsheet 26 may be maintained in secured relation with the absorbent structure by bonding all or a portion of the adjacent surfaces to one another. A variety of bonding articles known to one of skill in the art may be utilized to achieve any such secured relation. Examples of such articles include, but are not limited to, the application of adhesives in a variety of patterns between the two adjoining surfaces, entangling at least portions of the adjacent surface of the absorbent with portions of the adjacent surface of the topsheet, or fusing at least portions of the adjacent surface of the topsheet to portions of the adjacent surface of the absorbent.

The topsheet 26 typically extends over the upper, bodyside surface of the absorbent structure, but can optionally extend around the article to partially or entirely, surround or enclose the absorbent structure. Alternatively, the topsheet 26 and the backsheet 28 can have peripheral margins which extend outwardly beyond the terminal, peripheral edges of the absorbent structure 30, and the extending margins of the topsheet and backsheet can be joined or otherwise operatively connected together to partially or entirely, surround or enclose the absorbent structure.

The backsheet 28 can be operatively connected to the topsheet layer 26 using any suitable technique or any direct or indirect configuration. The connection technique may, for example, include adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, sonic bonding, cohesive bonding, mechanical attachments or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The backsheet layer may include a layer constructed of any operative material, and may or may not have a selected level of liquid-permeability or an operative level of liquid-impermeability, as desired. In a particular configuration, the baffle or backsheet 28 may be configured to provide an operatively liquid-impermeable backsheet structure. The backsheet may, for example, include a polymeric film, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric or the like, as well as combinations or composites thereof. For example, the backsheet may include a polymer film laminated to a woven or nonwoven fabric. In a particular feature, the polymer film can be composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, the polymer film may be micro-embossed, have a printed design, have a printed message to the consumer, and/or may be at least partially colored. Desirably, the backsheet 28 can operatively permit a sufficient passage of air and moisture vapor out of the article, particularly out of an absorbent (e.g. storage or absorbent structure 30) while blocking the passage of bodily liquids. An example of a suitable backsheet material can include a breathable, microporous film, such as a HANJIN Breathable backsheet available from Hanjin Printing, Hanjin P&C Company Limited, a business having offices located in Sahvon-li.Jungan-mvu.Kongiu-City, Chung cheong nam-do, Republic of South Korea. The backsheet material is a breathable film, which is white in color, dimple embossed, and contains: 47.78% calcium carbonate, 2.22% TiO₂, and 50% polyethylene.

In a particular feature, the polymer film can have a minimum thickness of no less than about 0.025 mm, and in another feature, the polymer film can have a maximum thickness of no greater than about 0.13 mm. Bicomponent films or other multi-component films can also be used, as well as woven and/or nonwoven fabrics which have been treated to render them operatively liquid-impermeable. Another suitable backsheet material can include a closed cell polyolefin foam. For example, a closed cell polyethylene foam may be employed. Still another example of a backsheet material would be a material that is similar to a polyethylene film which is used on commercially sold KOTEX brand pantiliners, and is obtainable from Pliant Corporation, a business having offices located in Schaumburg, Ill., U.S.A.

The structure of the absorbent body 30 can be operatively configured to provide a desired level of absorbency or storage capacity. More particularly, the absorbent body can be configured to hold a liquid, such as urine, menses, other complex liquid or the like, as well as combinations thereof. As representatively shown, the absorbent body can include a matrix of absorbent fibers and/or absorbent particulate material, and the absorbent fiber can include natural fiber (e.g. woodpulp fluff) and/or synthetic fiber. Additionally, the absorbent body may include one or more components that can modify menses or intermenstrual liquid.

The absorbent structure 30 may also include superabsorbent material. Superabsorbent materials suitable for use in the present invention are known to those skilled in the art, and may be in any operative form, such as particulate form. Generally stated, the superabsorbent material can be a water-swellable, generally water-insoluble, hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material, which is capable of absorbing at least about 20, desirably about 30, and possibly about 60 times or more its weight in physiological saline (e.g. saline with 0.9 wt % NaCl). The hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material may be formed from organic hydrogel-forming polymeric material, which may include natural material such as agar, pectin, and guar gum; modified natural materials such as carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose; and synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers. Synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers include, for example, alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl alcohol, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl morpholinone, polymers and copolymers of vinyl sulfonic acid, polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl pyridine, and the like. Other suitable hydrogel-forming polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrile grafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, and isobutylene maleic anhydride copolymers and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel-forming polymers are preferably lightly crosslinked to render the material substantially water insoluble. Crosslinking may, for example, be by irradiation or covalent, ionic, Van der Waals, or hydrogen bonding. Suitable materials are available from various commercial vendors such as The Dow Chemical Company and Stockhausen, Inc. The superabsorbent material may desirably be included in an appointed storage or retention portion of the absorbent system, and may optionally be employed in other components or portions of the absorbent article.

The amount of superabsorbent material in the absorbent body 30 can be up to about 75 wt % or more, as determined with respect to the total weight of material in the absorbent body. In particular aspects, the amount of superabsorbent material can be within the range of about 5-35 wt %, and can alternatively be within the range of about 8-20 wt % to provide desired performance. In desired configurations, the amount of superabsorbent can be about 15 wt %.

In particular configurations, the absorbent body 30 can be included in an absorbent article, and can provide a composite, overall absorbent saturation capacity (saturated retention capacity) which is at least a minimum of about 20 grams of 0.9 wt % saline, as determined under substantially unconstrained, free-swell conditions. The overall absorbent capacity can alternatively be at least about 100 grams of 0.9 wt % saline to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the overall absorbent saturation capacity can be up to a maximum of about 500 grams of 0.9 wt % saline or more, and can alternatively be up to about 300 grams of 0.9 wt % saline to provide improved effectiveness. In a desired arrangement, the composite, overall absorbent capacity can be about 150 grams of 0.9 wt % saline.

In other configurations, the absorbent body 30 can be included in a feminine care article, and can provide a composite, overall absorbent saturation capacity which is at least a minimum of about 5.5 grams of menses simulant A. The overall absorbent saturation capacity can alternatively be at least about 40 grams of menses simulant A to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the overall absorbent saturation capacity can be up to a maximum of about 120 grams of menses simulant A, or more, and can alternatively be up to about 88 grams of menses simulant A to provide improved effectiveness. In a desired arrangement, the composite, overall absorbent saturation capacity can be about 60 grams of menses simulant A.

In particular configurations, the absorbent body 30 can be included in a feminine care article, and can provide a composite, overall absorbent retention capacity which is at least a minimum of about 5 grams of menses simulant A. The overall absorbent retention capacity can alternatively be at least about 10 grams of menses simulant A to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the overall absorbent retention capacity can be up to a maximum of about 34 grams of menses simulant A, or more, and can alternatively be up to about 20 grams of menses simulant A to provide improved effectiveness. In a desired arrangement, the composite, overall absorbent retention capacity can be about 14.5 grams of menses simulant A.

The menses simulant A is composed of swine blood diluted with swine plasma to provide a hematocrit level of 35% (by volume). A suitable device for determining the hematocrit level is a HEMATOSTAT-2 system, available from Separation Technology, Inc., a business having offices located in Altamonte Springs, Fla., U.S.A. A substantially equivalent system may alternatively be employed. Simulant A is typically used for absorbent capacity tests, where the viscoelastic properties that affect liquid movement have been found to be of little importance.

As representatively shown, the absorbent body 30 of the selected article can comprise a composite structure having a selected plurality of strata or layers. With reference to FIGS. 1 through 2C, for example, the absorbent composite can include an intake layer 32 and an absorbent shaping layer 36, as well as any other desired components, arranged in any operative combination. As representatively shown, the structure of the absorbent body can include an absorbent pad, shaping layer 36 which is positioned between the topsheet 26 and the backsheet 28, and can include an intake layer 32 which is positioned between the topsheet 26 and the shaping layer 36.

In a particular aspect, the article 20 can include a top, bodyside intake layer 32 which is sized and placed to more effectively operate in a target area of the absorbent body 30 where liquids are more likely to be introduced into the article. The material of the intake layer can be configured to provide desired liquid-intake properties, substantially without consideration for delivering shaping properties. For example, the configuration of the intake layer may or may not include properties that are configured to prevent bunching and twisting of the article, particularly the absorbent structure, during ordinary wear.

The intake layer can include material that is configured to quickly absorb and pull liquid away from the body. Accordingly, the intake layer 32 can provide the function of liquid intake and can also provide the functions of liquid distribution, spreading, temporary storage and liquid retention. The intake layer may include natural fibers (e.g. woodpulp fluff), synthetic fibers, superabsorbent materials, a woven fabric; a nonwoven fabric; a wet-laid fibrous web; a substantially unbonded airlaid fibrous web; an operatively bonded, stabilized-airlaid fibrous web; or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, the absorbent body may include one or more components that can modify menses or intermenstrual liquid.

In a particular arrangement, the intake layer can be a thermally-bonded, stabilized-airlaid fibrous web (e.g. Concert code 175.1020) available from Concert Fabrication, a business having offices located in Gatineaux, Quebec, Canada. The intake layer may optionally be provided by a similar, stabilized airlaid fibrous web available from Buckeye Technologies, Inc., a business having offices located in Memphis, Tenn., U.S.A.

In a desired feature, the intake layer 32 can have a relatively lower basis weight, as compared to the bottom (garment-side) retention/shaping layer 36. Optionally, the basis weight of the intake layer may be equal or similar to the basis weight of the shaping layer. In another feature, the intake layer 32 can have a lower density (e.g., be more lofty), as compared to the retention/shaping layer 36. Alternatively, the basis weight of the intake layer can be higher than or equal to the basis weight of the shaping/retention layer 36.

In a particular aspect, the basis weight of the intake layer 32 can be at least a minimum of about 30 g/m². The basis weight of the intake layer can alternatively be at least about 100 g/m², and can optionally be at least about 120 g/m² to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the basis weight of the intake layer can be up to a maximum of about 250 g/m², or more. The basis weight of the intake layer can alternatively be up to about 200 g/m², and can optionally be up to about 175 g/m² to provide improved effectiveness.

In a desired feature, the top (bodyside) intake layer 32 of the present invention can be smaller in size than the bottom retention/shaping layer 36. Accordingly, the bottom retention/shaping layer 36 can be larger than the top intake layer, and can substantially define the overall size of the absorbent body 30. Optionally, the bottom retention/shaping layer 36 can be substantially equal to, or relatively smaller than the top intake layer.

The intake layer can be substantially centered (in its machine-direction and cross-direction) with respect to the shaping layer. Optionally, the intake layer may be skewed or offset in one direction (e.g. along the machine-direction), depending on where liquid is expected to first enter the absorbent article.

The top intake layer 32 may have any operative shape and/or design. For example, the intake layer may include a single piece of material, or multiple pieces of material. For example, the intake layer may include multiple strips of material. In addition, the intake layer 32 may include holes or apertures to better provide desired liquid-intake properties. The apertures may extend partially or completely through the z-directional thickness of the intake layer 32, as desired.

The shaping layer 36 can provide the functions of liquid storage and retention, liquid distribution, liquid spreading and shape maintenance. The shaping layer may include natural fibers (e.g. woodpulp fluff), synthetic fibers, superabsorbent materials, a woven fabric; a nonwoven fabric; a wet-laid fibrous web; a substantially unbonded airlaid fibrous web; an operatively bonded, stabilized-airlaid fibrous web; or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, the shaping layer may include one or more components that can modify the menses or intermenstrual liquid.

In a particular arrangement, the shaping layer can be a thermally-bonded, stabilized-airlaid fibrous web available from Concert Fabrication (e.g. Concert code 225.1021), a business having offices located in Gatineaux, Quebec, Canada. The shaping layer 36 may optionally be provided by a similar, stabilized airlaid fibrous web available from Buckeye Technologies, Inc., a business having offices located in Memphis, Tenn., U.S.A.

In a particular aspect, the basis weight of the shaping layer 36 can be at least a minimum of about 100 g/m². The shaping layer basis weight can alternatively be at least about 130 g/m², and can optionally be at least about 165 g/m² to provide improved performance. In other aspects, the basis weight of the shaping layer can be up to a maximum of about 400 g/m², or more. The shaping layer basis weight can alternatively be up to about 350 g/m², and can optionally be up to about 325 g/m² to provide improved effectiveness. In a desired configuration, the shaping layer basis weight can be about 225 g/m².

Further details regarding a suitable absorbent and absorbent system are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2004/0186448, which was published Sep. 23, 2004. The entire disclosure of this document is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent herewith.

The personal care article 20 can further include a garment-attachment mechanism operatively connected to a garment-side of the backsheet layer 28. In a desired feature, a selected configuration of a garment-attachment mechanism may be distributed onto the garment-side of the article to help secure the article to the undergarment. Any operative fastening or attachment mechanism may be employed. The garment-attachment may, for example, include an interengaging mechanical fastener, a hook-and-loop fastener, a cohesive fastener, an adhesive fastener or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In particular aspects, the garment-attachment mechanism can include an adhesive 38, and the garment-attachment mechanism can be arranged in any operative configuration, such as the illustrated strip regions. Typically, the garment adhesive can be distributed over the garment-side of the backsheet, and one or more layers or sheets of release material 40 can be removably placed over the garment adhesive during storage, prior to use.

The article 20 can include a system of side-panel or wing portions 42 which can be integrally connected to appointed sections of the side regions along the intermediate portion of the article. For example, the side-panels or wings can be separately provided members that are subsequently attached or otherwise operatively joined to the intermediate portion of the article 20. In other configurations, the wings or side-panels 42 can be unitarily formed with one or more components of the article. As representatively shown in FIGS. 2, 2A and 2B, for example, either or both wing portions may be formed from a corresponding, operative extension of the material employed to form the topsheet 26. Alternatively, either or both wing portions may be formed from a corresponding, operative extension of the material employed to form the backsheet 28, or formed from a corresponding, operative combination of the topsheet and backsheet materials.

The side-panels can have an appointed storage position (e.g. FIG. 8) in which the side-panels 42 are directed generally inwardly toward the longitudinally-extending centerline 52, in configurations that are well known in the art. The storage position can be configured with the side-panels extending generally adjacent to the garment-side of the backsheet layer 28. Alternatively, the storage position can be configured with the side-panels extending generally adjacent to the bodyside of the topsheet 26. The side-panel that is connected to one side region of the article may optionally have sufficient cross-directional length to extend and continue past the centerline 52 to approach the laterally opposite side region of the article. The storage position of the side-panels can ordinarily represent an arrangement observed when the article is first removed from its wrapper or other packaging. Prior to placing the article into a bodyside of an undergarment prior to use, the side-panels 42 can be selectively arranged to extend laterally outboard at the side regions of the article intermediate portion (e.g. FIGS. 2, 2A and 2B). After placing the article in the undergarment, the side-panels 42 can be operatively wrapped and secured around the side edges of the undergarment to help hold the article in place.

The side-panel portions 42 can have any operative construction, and can include a layer of any operative material. Additionally, each side-panel can comprise a composite material. For example, the side-panels may include a spunbond fabric material, a polymer film material, a bi-component spunbond material, a necked spunbond material, a neck-stretched-bonded-laminate (NBL) material, a meltblown fabric material, a bonded carded web, a thermal bonded carded web, a through-air bonded carded web or the like, as well as combinations thereof.

Each side-panel 42 can be joined to its corresponding side region of the article in any operative manner. For example, the side-panel can be joined to the topsheet 26, the backsheet 28 or another article component, as well as any combination thereof. In the illustrated example, each side-panel 42 is joined to the outward, garment-side surface of the backsheet 28, but may optionally be joined to the bodyside surface of the backsheet. The side-panel can be attached with hotmelt adhesive, but any other operative adhesive or attachment mechanism may alternatively be employed.

In another feature, each side-panel portion 42, or any desired combination of the employed side-panel portions, can include a panel-fastener component 50 which is operatively joined to an appointed engagement surface of its associated side-panel. The panel-fastener can be configured to operatively attach to the wearer's undergarment and/or to any appointed, landing-zone portion of the article 20. For example, the panel-fastener can include a system of interengaging mechanical fasteners, a system of adhesive fasteners, a system of cohesive fasteners or the like, as well as combinations thereof.

Either or both side-panels 42 may include a panel-fastener component 44 which includes a hook or other “male” component of an interengaging mechanical fastener system. Any operative hook component may be employed. For example, a suitable hook component material can include a J-hook, mushroom-head hook, flat-top nail-head hook, a palm-tree hook, a multiple-J hook or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Alternatively, either or both side-panels 42 can include a panel-fastener component 44 which alternatively incorporates an operative adhesive. The adhesive may be a solvent-based adhesive, a hotmelt adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Each section of the adhesive or other fastener-component 44 may be covered with a readily removable release sheet 51.

Further details regarding a suitable panel-fastener system are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2004/0186448, which was published Sep. 23, 2004. The entire disclosure of this document is incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent herewith.

In optional arrangements, the article 20 may include additional components or component layers, as desired. For example, a transfer layer may be positioned between the intake layer 32 and the shaping layer 36. In another feature, the article may include any desired pattern of embossments formed into at least the bodyside surface of the article. The embossing can deform the bodyside of the topsheet and can deform selected portions of the absorbent body 30 to provide operative channel regions that can help block, direct or otherwise control a desired movement of liquids along the bodyside surface of the article. The embossing can also provide an aesthetic benefit to the consumer, and a visual cue regarding fit and leakage protection. In particular arrangements, the embossments can be positioned generally adjacent the perimeter edges of the absorbent body 30. In other aspects, the embossments can be configured to provide a regular or irregular pattern having one or more channels which are distributed in a symmetrical or asymmetrical array, as desired.

With reference to FIGS. 3-5A, at least a portion of the first end-section 72 of the article 20 can be folded along or can otherwise include a first end-fold-region 58 which is substantially convex along a topsheet-side of the article. Additionally, the first end-fold-region 58 is substantially concave along a backsheet-side of the article. When the article 20 is in its substantially unfolded condition, the article has a width 34. In a particular aspect, the first end-fold-region of the article has been configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article along at least about 65% or 70% of its corresponding lateral width of the first end-fold-region. The first end-fold-region of the article can alternatively be configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article for at least about 80% of its corresponding lateral width of the first end-fold-region, and can optionally be configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article for about 100% of its corresponding lateral width of the first end-fold-region to provide desired benefits.

At least a portion of the second end-section 72 a has been folded along or otherwise includes a second end-fold-region 62 which is substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article 20. Additionally, the second end-fold-region 62 can be substantially concave along the backsheet-side of the article 20. In a particular aspect, the second end-fold-region of the article has been configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article along at least about 65% or 70% of its corresponding lateral width of the second end-fold-region. The second end-fold-region of the article can alternatively be configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article for at least about 80% of its corresponding lateral width of the second end-fold-region, and can optionally be configured to be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article for about 100% of its corresponding lateral width of the second end-fold-region to provide desired performance.

The article 20 can be further folded along or otherwise include a first, laterally extending, supplemental-fold-region 64, which is positioned between the first end-fold-region 58 and a laterally extending centerline 54 of the article 20. The first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be substantially convex along a backsheet-side of the article 20, and can be substantially concave along a topsheet-side of the article.

In a particular feature, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 of the article has been configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article 20 along at least about 65% or 70% of the corresponding lateral width of the first supplemental-fold-region. The first supplemental-fold-region of the article can alternatively be configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article for at least about 80% of its corresponding lateral width, and can optionally be configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article for about 100% of its corresponding lateral width to provide desired benefits.

Additionally, a second, laterally extending, supplemental-fold-region 66 can be positioned between the second end-fold-region 62 and the laterally extending centerline 54 of the article 20. The second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article, and can also be substantially concave along the topsheet-side of the article. In a particular feature, the second supplemental-fold-region 66 of the article has been configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article 20 along at least about 65% or 70% of the corresponding lateral width of the second supplemental-fold-region. The second supplemental-fold-region of the article can alternatively be configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article for at least about 80% of its corresponding lateral width, and can optionally be configured to be substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the article for about 100% of its corresponding lateral width to provide desired performance.

As representatively shown, the article 20 may have been folded along or may otherwise include a middle-fold-region 70 which is proximate a laterally extending centerline 54 of the article 20. The configuration of the middle-fold-region can desirably be substantially convex along a backsheet-side of the article 20, and can be substantially concave along a topsheet-side of the article. Alternatively, the configuration of the middle-fold-region 70 may be substantially concave along the backsheet-side of the article 20, and may be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article 20.

With reference to FIGS. 3, 5, 5A and 6-6B, the article 20 may have been folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 84 positioned along a portion of the first end-section 72 which is immediately or otherwise proximally adjacent the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20. The-first supplemental-fold-line 84 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over first end-section 72 which faces and is operatively positioned relatively onto the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20. Desirably, the folded-over first end-section 72 can be arranged in a facing relation against the intermediate-section 76 of the article. Additionally, the article 20 may have been folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 86 positioned along a portion of the second end-section 72 a which is immediately or otherwise proximally adjacent the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20. The second supplemental-fold-line 86 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over second end-section 72 a which faces and is operatively positioned relatively onto the folded-over first end-section 72, thereby providing a preliminary-folded article 82. Desirably, the folded-over second end-section 72 a can be arranged in a facing relation against the folded-over first end-section 72 of the article. Accordingly, the folded-over second end-section 72 a can be arranged generally adjacent and in sufficiently close proximity to the intermediate-section 76 of the article. The preliminary-folded article 82 may also have been subsequently folded along a third-laterally extending, composite fold-line 74, to thereby provide a composite-folded article 88.

The first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 84 can be spaced from a first terminal end-edge 90 of the article 20 by a first spacing distance 78, which can be approximately one-third of an overall longitudinal length 94 of the article 20. Additionally, the second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 86 can be spaced from a longitudinally-opposed, second terminal end-edge 92 of the article 20 by a second spacing distance 80 that can also be approximately one-third of the overall, longitudinal length 94 of the article 20.

As representatively shown in FIGS. 3B, 3C and 4B, the first end-section 72 can be folded about the first supplemental-fold-line 84 (e.g. FIG. 5A) to provide a first supplemental-fold-region 64 which is substantially convex along a backsheet-side of the article 20. Additionally, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be substantially concave along a topsheet-side of the article 20. The second end-section 72 a can be folded along a second supplemental-fold-line 86 to provide a preliminary-folded article 82. The second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be configured to be substantially convex along a backsheet-side of the article 20. Additionally, the configuration of the second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be substantially concave along a topsheet-side of the article. With reference to FIGS. 3C, 3D, 4B, 4C, and FIGS. 9 through 10A, the preliminary-folded article 82 can be further folded along the third, laterally extending, composite fold-line 74 to provide a composite fold region 96 which is substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the intermediate section 76 of the article 20.

The first end-section 72 can be folded along the first supplemental-fold-line 84 to provide a first supplemental-fold-region 64 which is substantially convex along a topsheet-side of the article 20. Additionally, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be substantially concave along a backsheet-side of the article. The second end-section 72 a can be folded along the second supplemental-fold-line 86. The second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be substantially convex along a topsheet-side of the article 20. Additionally, the second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be substantially concave along a backsheet-side of the article. As representatively shown, the first and second folded end sections 72, 72 a can cooperatively provide a preliminary-folded article 82. The resulting preliminary-folded article 82 can then be folded along the third, laterally extending, composite fold-line 74 to provide a composite fold-region 96 which is substantially convex along the backsheet-side of the intermediate section 76 of the article 20. Alternatively, the composite fold-region 96 can be substantially concave along the backsheet-side of the article intermediate section 76.

With reference to FIGS. 3D, 4C, 5 and 5A, the first and second end-sections 72, 72 a can be operatively sandwiched between folded-over sections of the intermediate portion 76 of the article 20. In a particular aspect, the article 20 can be folded along a third, laterally extending, composite fold-line 74 which is operatively arranged to approximately bisect the preliminary-folded article 82. In another aspect, the first supplemental fold-line 84 and the second supplemental-fold-line 86 can be configured to approximately trisect the overall longitudinal length 94 of the article 20.

As representatively shown in FIGS. 3 through 3C and FIGS. 6 through 6B, a first, topsheet portion in the folded-over first end-section 72 can be positioned onto an intermediate topsheet portion in the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20. Additionally, a second-topsheet portion in the folded-over second end-section 72 a can be positioned onto a first, backsheet portion in the folded-over first end section 72 to thereby provide a preliminary-folded article 82.

In an optional arrangement of another preliminary-folded article representatively illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 4B and FIGS. 7 through 7B, the first end-fold-region 58 can be configured to place or otherwise position a first longitudinally-outboard region 46 of the backsheet 28 in the first end-section 72 at a location which is operatively adjacent a second longitudinally-inboard region 48 of the backsheet 28 in the first end-section 72. Similarly, the second end-fold-region 62 can be configured to place or otherwise position a second longitudinally-outboard region 46 a of the backsheet 28 in the second end-section 72 a at a location which is operatively adjacent a second longitudinally-inboard region 48 a of the backsheet 28 in the second end-section 72 a. In addition, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 can be configured to place or otherwise position a longitudinally-inboard region 60 of the topsheet 26 in the first end-section 72 at a location which is operatively adjacent a first region 68 of the topsheet in the intermediate section 76. Similarly, the second supplemental-fold-region 66 can be configured to place or otherwise position a longitudinally-inboard region 60 a of the topsheet 26 in the second end-section 72 a at a location which is operatively adjacent a second region 68 a of the topsheet in the intermediate section of the article.

In a desired aspect, the article 20 can eventually be folded along the third, composite fold-line 74 in a configuration which positions an intermediate backsheet portion in the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20 along an outward-facing, substantially convex side of the composite fold-region 96 (e.g. FIGS. 3D and 4C, and FIGS. 9 through 10A). In a particular arrangement, for example, the composite fold-region 96 can include a cooperative combination of the first end-fold-region 58, the second end-fold-region 62 and the middle-fold-region 70 (e.g. FIGS. 3D and 9A).

Where the article 20 includes at least a pair of laterally extending and laterally opposed side-panel or wing portions 42, 42 a. The wing portions 42 can be arranged in a storage position, with the wing portions located adjacent a selected, outer surface of the article 20, and extending inboard towards the longitudinal centerline 52. As representatively shown in FIG. 8, for example, the wing portions 42 can be configured to be substantially, immediately adjacent the topsheet-side of the article. Optionally, the wing portions 42 can be configured to be substantially, immediately adjacent the backsheet-side of the article.

Desirably, the folding of the article end sections (72, 72 a) along the respective supplemental fold-lines (84, 86) can be conducted after placing the wing portions 42, 42 a in their storage positions. The folding of the article end sections may optionally be conducted prior to placing the wing portions in their storage positions. The absorbent article 20 may have a configuration in which two, three or more laterally-extending fold-lines and fold-regions are positioned to extend through each individual wing portion. In a particular aspect, the absorbent article 20 can have a configuration in which not more than one laterally-extending fold-line or fold-region is positioned to extend through each individual wing portion.

The various configurations of the personal care article 20 may be enhanced by making the appointed fold-regions (e.g. fold-regions 58, 62, 64, 66, and/or 70) more flexible, extensible, stretchable or otherwise more foldable. For example, the topsheet 26, backsheet 28, absorbent body 30, garment-attachment mechanism 38, and/or release material 40 can be constructed with materials that are flexible, elastomerically extensible, plastically extensible or otherwise operatively stretchable. Further details regarding suitable constructions that can enhance the desired folding ability are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,611,790; 5,197,959; and 4,950,264; and in U.S. Patent Application 2005/0182374. The entire disclosures of these documents are incorporated herein by reference in a manner that is consistent herewith.

The article 20 can also be configured to have a selected article length 94 and a selected article thickness 25, as determined when the article is in its flat-out condition with substantially all gathering or folding removed, (e.g. FIGS. 5 and 5A) to help provide desired benefits. In a particular aspect, the article length can be not more than a maximum of about 325 mm. The article length can alternatively be not more than about 300 mm, and can optionally be not more than about 240 mm. In further aspect, the article thickness can be not more than a maximum of about 7 mm, as determined under a restraining pressure of 0.1 psi (0.7 KPa). The article thickness can alternatively be not more than about 5 mm, and can optionally be not more than about 2.5 mm. When the article length and thickness are within the desired values, the article can provide improved discretion and comfort.

The composite-folded article 88 can have a selected length 100, a selected width 102 and a selected thickness 104. The composite-folded thickness is determined under a restraining pressure of 0.1 psi (0.7 KPa). In a particular aspect, the composite-folded length 100 can be less than 10 cm to provide desired levels of discretion. The composite-folded length can alternatively be less than 7 cm, and can optionally be less than 4 cm to provide desired benefits. In another aspect, the composite-folded width and thickness have been configured to provide a selected girth, which extends around the composite-folded article and along the width and thickness dimensions of the composite-folded article. In desired arrangements, the composite-folded girth can be less than about 15 cm. The girth can alternatively be less than 10 cm, and can optionally be less than about 5 cm to provide improved benefits. In a particular arrangement, the composite-folded girth can be less than about 15 cm and the composite-folded length can be less than about 10 cm. Another arrangement of the composite-folded article can have a girth that is less than about 10 cm and a length that is less than about 7 cm. In a further arrangement, the girth can be less than about 5 cm and the length can be less than about 4 cm.

The selected length and girth dimensions of the composite-folded article 88 can help provide improved discretion and convenience. By incorporating the length and girth dimensions, the composite-folded article can be more discreetly hidden in a user's hand, and can be more discreetly carried and transported.

The preliminary-folded article can be operatively enclosed in a single-component or multiple-component flexible wrap member during or after the folding about the first and second supplemental-fold-regions, and the wrap member may include a flexible pouch member or other flexible container member. With reference to FIGS. 9 through 11A, the employed pouch member or other wrapper member 98 can be configured to operatively enclose at least a major portion or an otherwise significant portion of the personal care article 20 when the article is in its preliminary-folded condition (e.g. a preliminary-folded article 82).

The wrap member can have a system of one or more side margins, such as the illustrated pair of opposed side margins 108. Each side margin can include a closure seam, and each closure seam can be arranged with any operative distribution or pattern. In a particular feature, the closure seam can have a distinctively small width dimension 110. In a particular aspect, the width of the pouch seam can be not more than a maximum of about 2 cm. The closure seam width 110 can alternatively be not more than about 1 cm, and can optionally be not more than about 0.5 cm to provide desired benefits. The selected width of a closure seam of the wrap member can help provide improved discretion and convenience. By incorporating the selected width, the wrap member that contains the preliminary-folded article 82 can be more discreetly hidden in a user's hand, and can be more discreetly carried and transported.

The article can be folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 84 (e.g. FIG. 5A) positioned proximally adjacent a first portion of the intermediate-section 76 of the article 20 to provide the first supplemental-fold-region 64. Additionally, the article can be folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line 86 (e.g. FIG. 5A) positioned proximally adjacent a second portion of the intermediate-section 76 of the article to provide the second supplemental-fold-region 66. During or after the folding about the first and second supplemental-fold-regions, the preliminary-folded article can be operatively enclosed in the selected wrap member. Both the preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98 can thereafter be folded along a third, laterally extending, composite fold-line 74, which may be proximate a laterally-extending centerline 54 (e.g. FIG. 1) of the article.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 9A, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 of the article 20 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over first end-section 72 of the article, at least a major portion of which is immediately adjacent and faces against the topsheet-side of the intermediate-section 76 of the article. As representatively shown, the topsheet-side of the folded-over first end-section can be located immediately adjacent and in facing relation against the topsheet-side of the intermediate-section 76 of the article. Such positioning of the folded-over first end-section can be provided before and prior to operatively enclosing the preliminary-folded article 82 in the wrap member 98. Additionally, the second supplemental-fold-line 66 can be operatively arranged to provide a folded-over second end-section 72 a, at least a major portion of which is immediately adjacent and faces against the backsheet-side of the folded-over, first end-section 72. As representatively shown, the topsheet-side of the folded-over second end-section can be positioned immediately adjacent and in facing relation against the backsheet-side of the folded-over, first end-section 72. Such positioning of the folded-over second end-section can be provided before and prior to operatively enclosing the preliminary-folded article 82 in the wrap member 98.

With reference to FIGS. 10 and 10A, the first supplemental-fold-region 64 of the article may have been operatively arranged to provide a folded-over first end-section 72 of the article, at least a portion of which is immediately adjacent and faces against the intermediate-section 76 of the article. As representatively shown, a portion of the topsheet-side of the folded-over first end-section can be located immediately adjacent and in facing relation against a corresponding, first portion of the topsheet-side of the intermediate-section 76 of the article. At least a portion of the first end-section 72 in the preliminary-folded article 82 may also have been folded about a first, article end-fold-region 58. As representatively shown, the first, article end-fold-region 58, can be substantially convex along a topsheet-side of the article. In a particular feature, the forming of the first supplemental-fold-region 64, and the first, end-fold-region 58 can be provided prior to and before operatively enclosing the preliminary-folded article 82 in the wrap member 98.

In addition, the second supplemental-fold-region 66 may have been operatively arranged to provide a folded-over second end-section 72 a, at least a portion of which is immediately adjacent and faces against the intermediate-section 76 of the article. As representatively shown, a portion of the topsheet-side of the folded-over second end-section can be located immediately adjacent and in facing relation against a corresponding, second portion of the topsheet-side of the intermediate-section 76 of the article. At least a portion of the second end-section 72 a in the preliminary-folded article 82 may also have been folded about a second, article end-fold-region 62. As illustrated, the second, article end-fold-region 62, can be substantially convex along the topsheet-side of the article. In a particular aspect, the forming of the first supplemental-fold-region 64, and the first, end-fold-region 58 can be provided prior to and before operatively enclosing the preliminary-folded article 82 in the wrap member 98.

With reference to FIGS. 11-11B, the wrap member can be configured to provide a container-portion 116, and outboard-extending, wrap side-margins or closure seams 108, where at least one of the side-margins or closure seams of the wrap member 98 has been folded to face against the container-portion of the wrap member, and has been operatively attached to the wrap container-portion 116. The at least one of the side-margins or closure seams 108 of the wrap member 98 may have been folded to face against the container-portion 116 of the wrap member, before or after the folding of the preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98 along their combined, composite fold-region 96 a. Additionally, at least one of the side-margins or closure seams 108 of the wrap member 98 may have been operatively attached to the wrap container-portion 116, before or after the folding of the preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98 along their combined, composite fold-region 96 a. The wrap member may also include a flap section 118, and the flap section of the wrap member may have been placed in a closed-position prior to the folding of the preliminary-folded article 82 and wrap member 98 along the overall, composite fold-region 96 a of the combined wrap member and preliminary-folded article.

The wrap retainer mechanism 112 can be provided by any operative device or system. For example, the wrap retainer mechanism can include an interengaging mechanical fastener, a hook-and-loop fastener, a cohesive fastener, an adhesive fastener or the like, as well as combinations thereof. As illustrated, the wrap retainer 112 may be indirectly connected to the wrap member, such as by employing a separately provided tab member. Alternatively, the wrap retainer may be formed with or otherwise directly connected to the wrap member.

The composite-folded, wrapped article 114 can have a combined, overall composite-folded, wrapped length that is generally aligned with and generally corresponds to the article length 100; and a combined, overall composite-folded, wrapped width that is generally aligned with and generally corresponds to the article width 102. The composite-folded, wrapped article 114 can also have a combined, overall composite-folded, wrapped thickness that is generally aligned with and generally corresponds to the article thickness 104. The composite-folded, wrapped thickness also is determined under a restraining pressure of 0.1 psi (0.7 KPa). In a particular aspect, the composite-folded, wrapped length can be less than 10 cm to provide desired levels of discretion. The composite-folded, wrapped length can alternatively be less than 7 cm, and can optionally be less than 4 cm to provide desired benefits. In another aspect, the composite-folded, wrapped width and thickness have been configured to provide an overall composite-folded, wrapped girth, which extends around the complete composite-folded, wrapped article and along the overall width and thickness dimensions of the composite-folded, wrapped article. In desired arrangements, the composite-folded, wrapped girth can be less than about 15 cm. The composite-folded, wrapped girth can alternatively be less than 10 cm, and can optionally be less than about 5 cm to provide improved benefits. In a particular arrangement, the composite-folded, wrapped girth can be less than about 15 cm and the composite-folded length can be less than about 10 cm. Another arrangement of the composite-folded, wrapped article can have an overall girth that is less than about 10 cm and an overall length that is less than about 7 cm. In a further arrangement, the overall girth can be less than about 5 cm and the overall length can be less than about 4 cm.

The selected length and girth dimensions of the composite-folded, wrapped article 114 can help provide improved discretion and convenience. By incorporating the length and girth dimensions, the composite-folded, wrapped article can be more discreetly hidden in a user's hand, and can be more discreetly carried and transported.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is capable of many modifications and variations without departing from the scope thereof. Accordingly, the detailed description and examples set forth above are meant to be illustrative only and are not intended to limit, in any manner, the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. 

1. A personal care article having a longitudinal-direction; a relatively shorter lateral cross-direction, a first end-section; a second end-section; and an intermediate-section which is interposed between said first end-section and said second end-section; said article comprising: a liquid permeable topsheet layer; and a backsheet layer operatively connected to the topsheet layer; wherein the article has been folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region; the first supplemental-fold-region has been located proximally adjacent a first portion of the article intermediate-section; the first supplemental-fold-region has been operatively arrange to provide a folded-over first end-section, at least a portion of which is in facing relation with the intermediate-section of the article, and is positioned at least proximally adjacent the article intermediate-section; the article has been folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region; the second supplemental-fold-region has been located proximally adjacent a second portion of the intermediate-section of the article; the second supplemental-fold-region has been operatively arranged to provide a folded-over second end-section, at least a portion of which is in facing relation with the intermediate-section of the article, and is positioned at least proximally adjacent the article intermediate-section; a preliminary-folded article has been provided after the article has been folded about both the first supplemental-fold-region, and the second supplemental-fold-region; the preliminary-folded article has been operatively enclosed in a wrap member; the preliminary-folded article and wrap member have been folded along a composite-fold-region of both the preliminary-folded article and wrap member, thereby providing a composite-folded, wrapped-article; and the wrap member has included a wrap retainer mechanism which has been configured to operatively hold the composite-folded, article and composite-folded wrap member in their composite-folded condition; wherein the article has been folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line positioned proximally adjacent a first portion of the intermediate-section of the article to provide the first supplemental-fold-region; the article has been folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-line positioned proximally adjacent a second portion of the intermediate-section of the article to provide the second supplemental-fold-region; and the preliminary-folded article and wrap member have been folded along a third, laterally extending, composite fold-line, which is proximate a laterally-extending centerline of the article.
 2. A personal care article as recited in claim 1, wherein the first supplemental-fold-line and the second supplemental-fold-line have been configured to approximately trisect a longitudinal length of the article. 